Singer and songwriter, Simisola Ogunleye, more popularly known as Simi, has officially parted ways with advertising and music executive, Steve Babaeko
Singer and songwriter, Simisola Ogunleye, more popularly known as Simi, has officially parted ways with advertising and music executive, Steve Babaeko’s Xtreme Music, the record label that brought her mainstream success. Taking to her Instagram handle, she penned an emotional note to her record label and boss, Steve, whom she described as her “Father”.
She wrote: “For the platform, for the support, for the freedom to express, for the trust, for the opportunity to live my dreams, for the growth, for the teamwork, for letting me be a part of the family, I thank you deeply. I appreciate you endlessly. I love you truly. x3mmusic has been a beautiful part of my journey and I hope you believe me when I say I will never ever take for granted the blessings you brought me.
“An especially intense thank you to my forever boss, mentor Steve Babaeko who has been more than a boss to me. You’ve been there for me even more as a father than as a CEO. And that’s saying a lot. This is bittersweet for me and my heart is heavy. As far as I’m concerned, my win is your win boss, and I hope I’ll always be able to come to u when I need you.
“More than anything, I’d like that. This is not goodbye. You’re just sending your daughter to do great exploits like you sent me to my husband’s house. Lol. My heart is counting on your continuous support, prayers and love. Don’t forget me dad, cos I could never forget you. I love you. Cheers”
In a response to her note, the record label thanked the singer for what they described as five beautiful years with the singer. On his Instagram handle, he wrote, “Came to us a Princess, leaving as a Queen.”
Also, the Lagos based Xtreme Music in a statement signed by A&R executive Vincent Nwanze, stated that both Simi and the record label decided to not renew the contract.
“We only sign artists that we love and believe in. We know our taste in music is rather different, but we only sign talents who meet that taste. Fortunately, we have been able to find millions of music lovers here and abroad, who share similar tastes, as is evident in the success of all the artists we have worked with, including Simi who is without any doubt one of the biggest music talents in the country today…”
Simi who started off as a gospel singer, scored her first commercial hit in 2014 for her single ‘Tiff’, which was released upon her signing with Xtreme Music. It is still not known what her next move might be, but from all indications she may choose to set up her own platform or seal an international record deal.
Simi now joins a growing list of female singers who are leaving their record labels, with Tiwa Savage having announced her exit from Mavins Records and signing with international music company, Universal Music Group.
